News for '-special'

India-Pakistan showdown drives World Cup ticket boom, draws 1 lakh-plus applications

India-Pakistan showdown drives World Cup ticket boom, draws 1 lakh-plus applications

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has received over one million ticket applications for the ODI World Cup 2027, with the India vs. Pakistan match being the most sought-after, attracting over 100,000 applications. Other high-demand matches include South Africa vs. India and India vs. Australia. The tournament will be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia from October 2 to November 21 next year.

Delhi stir: Train services to operate as per normal schedule on Sunday

Delhi stir: Train services to operate as per normal schedule on Sunday

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

Northern Railway has announced that all train services will operate as per their normal schedule on October 11, following cancellations and rescheduling of several trains on October 9-10 after the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) announced a protest against CEC Gyanesh Kumar in Delhi.

Man Sentenced To 20 Years RI For Sexual Assault In Jalna

Man Sentenced To 20 Years RI For Sexual Assault In Jalna

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

A special court in Jalna, Maharashtra, has sentenced Faizan Ahmed Abbas Husain to 20 years' rigorous imprisonment and a fine of Rs 10,000 for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl. The court also ordered the Maharashtra government to provide Rs 50,000 compensation to the victim.

CBI Uncovers Multi-State Banking Exam Cheating Network

CBI Uncovers Multi-State Banking Exam Cheating Network

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has dismantled a multi-state impersonation and cheating network involved in banking recruitment. Four individuals, including a CGST inspector, were arrested for allegedly infiltrating banking exams and interviews by posing as candidates, thereby compromising the integrity of public examinations.

'Our path is independent': DMK exits INDIA bloc, cites Congress 'betrayal'

'Our path is independent': DMK exits INDIA bloc, cites Congress 'betrayal'

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

The DMK has announced its exit from the INDIA bloc, citing "betrayal" by the Congress and asserting its independent political path. The party accused Congress leaders, including TNCC chief B Manickam Tagore, of making unsavoury remarks and acting as "sleeper cells," which contributed to the DMK's electoral setbacks. The DMK warned Congress leaders against further criticism and stated it would not participate in Congress-led agitations.

CBI Uncovers Multi-State Exam Impersonation Network

CBI Uncovers Multi-State Exam Impersonation Network

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has dismantled an alleged impersonation and cheating network spanning Delhi, Bihar, Haryana, and West Bengal. Four individuals, including a CGST inspector, have been arrested for fraudulently infiltrating public examination selection processes by posing as candidates. The CBI's investigation is ongoing to identify further accomplices.

Only some people are heard: Ex-IAS Divya Mittal launches party

Only some people are heard: Ex-IAS Divya Mittal launches party

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

Former IAS officer Divya Mittal has launched her new political party, Jan Neeti Bharat, with the aim of contesting the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections and redefining governance by making people central to policymaking and ensuring government accountability.

Delhi Police denies protest nod to CJP, cites 'serious law and order concerns'

Delhi Police denies protest nod to CJP, cites 'serious law and order concerns'

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

The Delhi Police has denied permission for a planned protest against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar at Jantar Mantar on October 10, citing late application and previous rule violations, with Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) now in force in the New Delhi district.

Former civil servants issue 'people's impeachment' notice against CEC

Former civil servants issue 'people's impeachment' notice against CEC

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Former civil servants and rights activists have issued a "people's impeachment" notice demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. They allege six charges against him, including undermining the Election Commission's functioning, mass disenfranchisement through Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, and compromising political impartiality. The group, including G K Pillai and Najeeb Jung, was prevented from submitting the notice at the EC office.

Aequs Expands Partnership With Safran For Aerospace Manufacturing

Aequs Expands Partnership With Safran For Aerospace Manufacturing

Rediff.com12 Oct 2026

Indian precision engineering firm Aequs has signed long-term supply agreements with French aerospace major Safran. These contracts will support Safran's supply chain and expand Aequs' role in manufacturing critical aerospace components, including fully assembled A320 family aircraft wheels and landing gear components for various Airbus and Boeing programmes, with significant in-country value addition in India.

'CEC Gyanesh Kumar will regret not meeting us'

'CEC Gyanesh Kumar will regret not meeting us'

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

INDIA bloc MPs, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, were detained during a protest demanding the removal of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, with Congress MP Pawan Khera warning Kumar would 'regret' not meeting them and asserting the 'trouble' had only just begun.

Maharashtra SIR: ECI revises poll roll schedule, final list on Nov 16

Maharashtra SIR: ECI revises poll roll schedule, final list on Nov 16

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced a revised schedule for the Special Intensive Revision of Maharashtra's electoral roll, pushing the final publication date to November 16, 2026. The period for filing claims and objections has also been extended.

Rahul Gandhi's Anti-BJP Battle Faces A New Challenge

Rahul Gandhi's Anti-BJP Battle Faces A New Challenge

Rediff.com17 Oct 2026

Unless the Congress stops seeing a CIA and RSS in everyone who disagrees with it, many well-meaning people will find it difficult to rub shoulders with Rahul Gandhi, notes M R Narayan Swamy.

Family alleges police barred Dipke from grandmother's funeral; cops deny

Family alleges police barred Dipke from grandmother's funeral; cops deny

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) convenor Abhijeet Dipke was detained by Delhi Police ahead of a protest, leading to him missing his grandmother's funeral. His family alleges police denied release requests, while police claim they offered assistance. The CJP continues its protest against the Chief Election Commissioner over alleged voter roll irregularities.

'13 crore voters deleted, 2% victory margin': Dipke alleges poll 'setting'

'13 crore voters deleted, 2% victory margin': Dipke alleges poll 'setting'

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) and student organisations have accused the government of attempting to influence electoral outcomes by allegedly deleting over 13 crore voters. They have demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, citing alleged irregularities in voter rolls and criticising the police crackdown on protesters. Leaders questioned the government's protection of the CEC and linked voter deletions to the narrow victory margin in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Paul Bettany Expresses Trepidation Over AI's Rapid Advancements

Paul Bettany Expresses Trepidation Over AI's Rapid Advancements

Rediff.com14 Oct 2026

Hollywood actor Paul Bettany, known for voicing J.A.R.V.I.S. and playing Vision in the MCU, expresses trepidation about the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. He discusses potential dystopian futures and the need for democratised AI, while promoting his new series "VisionQuest" which started streaming on JioHotstar on Tuesday.

'Immense joy and pride': Father hails Diksha Dagar's Asian Games silver

'Immense joy and pride': Father hails Diksha Dagar's Asian Games silver

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Indian golfer Diksha Dagar and her father, Narender Dagar, expressed immense pride and joy after India secured a silver medal in the women's team golf event at the 2026 Asian Games, highlighting years of dedication and hard work.

Delhi HC to hear PIL seeking right to protest at Jantar Mantar

Delhi HC to hear PIL seeking right to protest at Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

The Delhi High Court is set to hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) on October 16 concerning the right to peaceful protest at Jantar Mantar. The plea seeks directions to authorities to permit demonstrations and declare peaceful protest as part of free speech, following recent protests and alleged police actions. Another PIL regarding assaults on protesters was adjourned to November.

CEC row: Opposition parties to march to SC on Monday to meet CJI

CEC row: Opposition parties to march to SC on Monday to meet CJI

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

Opposition parties, led by Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, plan to march to the Supreme Court on Monday to meet the Chief Justice of India. They aim to submit a memorandum regarding alleged 'vote chori' and demand CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation, halting of SIR, and a return to paper ballots. The protest follows widespread detentions during previous demonstrations, which the opposition condemns as an assault on democracy.

CJP stir: 200 detained as protest enters Day 2, police excesses alleged

CJP stir: 200 detained as protest enters Day 2, police excesses alleged

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

Several protesters, including CPI(M) MP John Brittas, were detained in Delhi as the Cockroach Janata Party's (CJP) protest demanding Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar's resignation entered its second day on Sunday. Protesters alleged manhandling by security personnel, while police maintained extensive security arrangements, detaining thousands over the weekend.

Isn't Dagi The Cutest Person You've Seen Today?

Isn't Dagi The Cutest Person You've Seen Today?

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Dagi Ngomdir is all set for her debut as Rebecca in the folk supernatural horror film Bokshi. When it comes to her real life, though, there is nothing spooky about her style.

High Court Transfers R G Kar Hospital Case To CBI SIT

High Court Transfers R G Kar Hospital Case To CBI SIT

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

The Calcutta High Court has ordered the transfer of a case concerning the alleged hurried cremation and destruction of evidence in the R G Kar hospital rape and murder case to the CBI's Special Investigation Team. This decision comes as the CBI is already probing a larger conspiracy in the doctor's death, and the court found it inappropriate for both state and central agencies to investigate the same issue.

'Sonali, Tu Khoop Honest Aahe': Madhuri Hugs, Dances on KBC Marathi

'Sonali, Tu Khoop Honest Aahe': Madhuri Hugs, Dances on KBC Marathi

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

It was beautiful to watch two successful actors speak about their career and personal journeys -- the highs and lows -- with such mutual admiration, notes Divya Nair.

Key Arrests Made In Social Media Influencer Mad Sandhu Murder

Key Arrests Made In Social Media Influencer Mad Sandhu Murder

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) and Valsad police have apprehended three men in connection with the murder of Punjabi social media influencer and makeup artist Mad Sandhu in Amritsar. The arrests follow an earlier detention by Ahmedabad Crime Branch of an alleged shooter. The detained individuals were found in Vapi, Gujarat, and have been handed over to Punjab Police for further investigation into their roles, including reconnaissance.

Imran Khan: From Bollywood fame to political crossfire

Imran Khan: From Bollywood fame to political crossfire

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

Actor Imran Khan, an American citizen, has been served a notice by Mumbai Police directing him to leave India by October 28 for allegedly violating immigration laws. This comes after his participation in recent political protests. His lawyer plans to challenge the decision in the Bombay High Court.

Four Arrested Over Delhi Protest Assault Video

Four Arrested Over Delhi Protest Assault Video

Rediff.com11 Oct 2026

Four members of the Hindu Raksha Dal were arrested in Delhi for allegedly assaulting students and women during a protest on October 10. The arrests came after a video of the incident went viral, prompting police to take suo motu cognisance despite no formal complaint. The incident occurred amidst broader protests and detentions.

Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam: ED Claims Rs 880 Crore Delivered To Congress Office

Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam: ED Claims Rs 880 Crore Delivered To Congress Office

Rediff.com12 Oct 2026

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has claimed that Rs 860-Rs 880 crore generated from an alleged liquor scam in Chhattisgarh during the previous Congress regime was delivered to the Pradesh Congress Committee office in Raipur. The agency filed a supplementary chargesheet against former PCC treasurer Ramgopal Agrawal and provisionally attached his properties worth Rs 9.06 crore. The ED alleges a liquor syndicate controlled the state excise department, generating over Rs 2,883 crore in illegal proceeds.

HC to hear plea against Jantar Mantar protest site closure

HC to hear plea against Jantar Mantar protest site closure

Rediff.com12 Oct 2026

The Delhi High Court is set to hear petitions concerning the alleged closure of Jantar Mantar as a protest site and reported assaults on protesters. Lawyers argue that the closure infringes on the right to free speech, especially as no alternative sites were designated. Separately, Delhi Police have denotified Jantar Mantar and named three new protest locations.

Maharashtra BLOs asked to accept voter documents on WhatsApp

Maharashtra BLOs asked to accept voter documents on WhatsApp

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Maharashtra's Chief Electoral Officer has allowed voter documents via WhatsApp for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, with Block Level Officers (BLOs) conducting home verifications. This development comes amidst controversy surrounding the Election Commission and its Chief, Gyanesh Kumar, over alleged unilateral decisions regarding the SIR, which opposition parties claim dilute the powers of Electoral Registration Officers. The deadline for claims and objections has been extended to October 12.

'We voted for PM, but he betrayed us': 200 detained in Mumbai

'We voted for PM, but he betrayed us': 200 detained in Mumbai

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Around 200 people, including Tushar Gandhi's organisation members and CPI(M) supporters, were detained in Mumbai for protesting.

Harry Kane is England's 'greatest-ever' player, says Bellingham

Harry Kane is England's 'greatest-ever' player, says Bellingham

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Jude Bellingham has lauded Harry Kane as England's 'greatest-ever player' after the captain marked his record-equalling 125th appearance with two goals and an assist in a 3-0 Nations League victory over the Czech Republic.

Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam: EOW/ACB Files 10th Supplementary Charge Sheet Naming 20 Accused

Chhattisgarh Liquor Scam: EOW/ACB Files 10th Supplementary Charge Sheet Naming 20 Accused

Rediff.com14 Oct 2026

The Chhattisgarh Economic Offence Wing/Anti-Corruption Bureau (EOW/ACB) has filed its 10th supplementary charge sheet in the alleged liquor scam, accusing 20 individuals, including former state Congress treasurer Ramgopal Agrawal, and 22 firms. The 27,000-page document details illegal liquor production, hawala transactions, and investment of illicit proceeds. The scam, estimated by the ED to be between 2019 and 2022, involved a complex network of illegal liquor sales, duplicate holograms, and routing of funds.

'Jeffrey Archer Made Me Fall In Love With Reading'

'Jeffrey Archer Made Me Fall In Love With Reading'

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Aneil R Vyas and Nihar Ranjan B will always celebrate Jeffrey Archer in their bookshelves.

Special Olympics Bharat Hails Football Team's Gothia Cup Bronze

Special Olympics Bharat Hails Football Team's Gothia Cup Bronze

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The Indian Special Olympics football team secured a bronze medal at the Gothia Cup in Sweden, marking their third consecutive podium finish. Special Olympics Bharat president Malika Nadda praised the team's resilience and determination, while coaches highlighted the challenges of adapting to artificial turf and expressed ambitions for future gold medals.

7 Zero Belly Smoothies For Mornings

7 Zero Belly Smoothies For Mornings

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

More and more young people, short of time, on the go, opt to start their day with a nutrient-packed smoothie that they whizz up themselves or carry in a portable blender and press on when ready to sip it.

Special Olympics Bharat Hails Football Team's Gothia Cup Bronze

Special Olympics Bharat Hails Football Team's Gothia Cup Bronze

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The Indian Special Olympics football team secured a bronze medal at the Gothia Cup in Sweden, marking their third consecutive podium finish. Special Olympics Bharat president Malika Nadda praised the team's resilience and determination, while coaches highlighted the challenges of adapting to artificial turf and expressed ambitions for future gold medals.

'Yeh mera mudda nahin hai': CJI on protests against CEC

'Yeh mera mudda nahin hai': CJI on protests against CEC

Rediff.com12 Oct 2026

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has stated that the ongoing protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and the associated restrictions in Delhi fall under law and order, not his judicial purview, and declined to meet opposition leaders regarding the issue.

Vir Das Gets Third Emmy Nomination For Fool Volume

Vir Das Gets Third Emmy Nomination For Fool Volume

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Vir Das has achieved his third International Emmy nomination for his Netflix special Vir Das: Fool Volume, making him the first Indian performer to receive three such nominations.

Unprecedented security clampdown in Delhi ahead of CJP protest; Internet, metro stations shut

Unprecedented security clampdown in Delhi ahead of CJP protest; Internet, metro stations shut

Rediff.com10 Oct 2026

Delhi is under an unprecedented security clampdown with 25,000 police and paramilitary personnel deployed, 45 metro stations shut, and mobile internet suspended in parts of the city, as authorities deny permission for a protest by the Cockroach Janta Party against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

A Dance Festival To Celebrate Love

A Dance Festival To Celebrate Love

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

'Through dance, we explore the many expressions of love across India's literature, music and storytelling traditions.'